The Shelf (August 2009)

Van Gogh Dutch Caramel VodkaVan Gogh introduces the newest flavor in its super-premium portfolio of 19 flavors, Van Gogh Dutch Caramel Vodka. As the first caramel-flavored vodka crafted in a natural caramel color, the vodka is available in three sizes: 1 L, 750 ml and 50 ml. Van Gogh Vodka is crafted in small batches by Master Distiller Tim Vos at the Royal Dirkzwager distillery in Schiedam, Holland.

Hennessy BlackHennessy Black, Hennessy’s first major launch since 1961, is available in 10 U.S. markets, including Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, New York City, Ohio, Washington, D.C. and Massachusetts. A blend of 35 to 45 pale and gold-colored eau-de-vie, Hennessy Black has a wood influence and is lighter and fresher than Hennessy Cognac, with scents of jasmine, daffodils and orange flowers mixed with hints of citrus, honey and grapes.

Bittermens Xocolatl Mole and Grapefruit BittersBittermens Inc. and The Bitter Truth have formed a partnership to bring a bitters line to market. Bittermens Xocolatl Mole and Grapefruit bitters are already used by select bars and restaurants under a pre-release program and will now be released as a sub-brand of The Bitter Truth. Bittermens will focus on new flavor development to bring to market with The Bitter Truth.

Robert Burns Blended Scotch WhiskyA. Hardy USA Ltd. released Robert Burns Blended Scotch Whisky on the 250th anniversary year of the birth of Robert Burns, the writer of “Auld Lang Syne.” The golden amber whisky has aromas of sherry, almonds, toffee, treacle, hot sponge cake, banana and hint of oak and a palate of dry, oaky vanilla with toffee and figs. It is available in 750 ml bottles and soon will be available in 1.75 L bottles.

New Packaging for Powers Gold LabelIn July, Powers Gold Label Irish Whiskey unveiled a new look for its 750 ml and 1 L packages. The design incorporates metallic gold coloring and stronger gold borders to reinforce the premium quality, and the front label lettering has been simplified and contemporized to be more distinct and appealing on the back bar. The lower front label, previously dark gold, is now black.